Legal Counsel, Christian Ministries

About Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF)

Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) is a prominent non-profit legal organization dedicated to protecting religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, marriage and family, and parental rights. ADF is currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated Legal Counsel to join its Center for Christian Ministries team. This position can be based in either Lansdowne, VA, or Scottsdale, AZ.

Role Overview

As Legal Counsel for Christian Ministries, you will report directly to the Senior Counsel, Director of the Center for Christian Ministries. In this role, you will evaluate and lead strategic litigation matters that advance and defend the constitutionally protected rights of churches, Christian ministries, and religious schools under the First Amendment. The successful candidate will be expected to handle litigation efforts with minimal oversight from senior attorneys, ensuring the continued protection of religious liberty.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive legal research and interview clients and witnesses.
• Prepare and respond to written discovery, as well as conduct and defend depositions.
• Develop legal strategies, arguments, and testimony in preparation for case presentations.
• Represent clients in court and before quasi-judicial or administrative government agencies.
• Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals, churches, and businesses.
• Confer with colleagues to establish and verify the basis for legal proceedings.
• Advise allied attorneys on complex legal issues within areas of competence.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following requirements to be considered for the position:

• Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Bar Admission: Active license in at least one U.S. state bar, with the capability of meeting admission requirements in the relevant jurisdiction within one year of hire.
• Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of complex litigation experience.
• Preferred Qualification: Prior trial experience is highly desirable.
• Organizational Fit: Alignment with ADF’s Statement of Faith and mission.

Compensation and Benefits

ADF offers a highly competitive compensation package comparable to top non-profit law firms. The comprehensive benefits package includes:

• 100% covered medical and dental insurance.
• Medical and dependent care reimbursement accounts.
• Paid disability, long-term care, and life insurance.
• A 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% company match.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and 12 paid holidays annually.

Application Details

Interested candidates should review ADF's Statement of Faith prior to applying to ensure alignment with the organization's mission. Applications can be submitted through official recruitment channels. Please note that no specific deadline has been specified, so early application is highly encouraged.